Hammett embraces Super Rugby challenge

Editor

Sunwolves coach Mark Hammett is under absolutely no illusions about the enormity of the task that lies ahead of them this year.

The Tokyo-based franchise will make its debut in Super Rugby and such is the nature of this year's tournament, that logistics are likely to have a significant impact on how his team fares against the tournament's established teams.

The Sunwolves will compete against the Stormers, Cheetahs and former champions the Bulls in Africa Conference 1. That in itself will prove an enormous undertaking for his team.

"We know it's going to be tough," Hammett told  Associated Press.

"Super Rugby is probably the hardest competition in the world. That's why it's important that we play our style of rugby and be innovative in the way we attack."

The other aspect of this squad which remains a concern is depth, or the lack thereof. Hammett has embraced the challenge though, especially in a country which is experiencing such rapid growth in rugby.

"Rugby is on the rise in Japan," he added. 

"We're hoping the Sunwolves can keep improving Japanese rugby."